Planetary Science Expert Explains Annular Solar Eclipse

Even in the digital age, some of the most impressive special effects come from Mother Nature. Earlier today, at 2:14 a.m. to be exact, a handful of dedicated sky gazers were treated to a spectacular solar eclipse as the moon crossed directly in front of the sun. The view of the eclipse was different depending where you stood.

Perhaps the most spectacular sight was the so-called ring of fire, when the moon was perfectly aligned with the sun. That, unfortunately, was only visible in Antarctica. But those in Australia still got a heavenly good show, which several astronomy centers streamed online for the rest of us.

GUEST

Kelly Beatty is the senior contributing editor for Sky & Telescope magazine and an expert in planetary science.